1. Introduction
i7 4720HQ vs i5 3550! When it comes to choosing the right processor for your computer, the options can be overwhelming. Two popular choices in the market are the i7 4720HQ and the i5 3550. In this article, we will compare these two processors to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and requirements.
2. Overview of i7 4720HQ
The i7 4720HQ is a quad-core processor manufactured by Intel. It belongs to the Haswell architecture and was released in 2014. With a base clock speed of 2.6 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 3.6 GHz, the i7 4720HQ offers excellent performance for both single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks. It is commonly found in high-performance laptops and offers features such as Intel Hyper-Threading, which allows each core to handle two threads simultaneously.
3. Overview of i5 3550
The i5 3550, on the other hand, is a quad-core processor from Intel’s Ivy Bridge architecture. It was launched in 2012 and has a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.7 GHz. The i5 3550 is designed for desktop computers and provides solid performance for everyday tasks and light to moderate multitasking. It does not support Intel Hyper-Threading, meaning it can handle only four threads at a time.
4. Performance Comparison
When comparing the performance of the i7 4720HQ and the i5 3550, it’s important to consider their clock speeds, architecture, and other factors. The i7 4720HQ has a lower base clock speed but a higher maximum turbo frequency compared to the i5 3550. This allows the i7 4720HQ to deliver better performance in single-threaded tasks and applications that can take advantage of higher clock speeds.
Moreover, the i7 4720HQ supports Intel Hyper-Threading, which gives it an edge in multi-threaded tasks by enabling better utilization of its cores. This feature allows the i7 4720HQ to handle more threads simultaneously, resulting in improved performance in tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and content creation.
5. Gaming Performance
For gamers, the performance of the processor plays a crucial role in determining the overall gaming experience. Both the i7 4720HQ and the i5 3550 can handle modern games, but the i7 4720HQ offers a slight advantage due to its higher clock speeds and Hyper-Threading capabilities.
In CPU-intensive games, the i7 4720HQ can provide smoother gameplay and better frame rates compared to the i5 3550. However, it’s important to note that the graphics card and other components also contribute significantly to gaming performance, so a balanced system is crucial for optimal gaming experience.
6. Power Consumption
Power consumption is another important factor to consider, especially for laptop users who prioritize battery life. The i7 4720HQ, being a mobile processor, is designed to balance performance and power efficiency. It has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 47 watts, which is relatively higher compared to the i5 3550, which has a TDP of 77 watts.
The i5 3550, being a desktop processor, consumes more power but provides a higher level of performance for tasks that demand processing power. Therefore, if portability and battery life are a primary concern, the i7 4720HQ might be a better choice.
7. Price and Affordability
Price is an important factor when choosing between the i7 4720HQ and the i5 3550. Generally, desktop processors tend to be more affordable compared to mobile processors. The i5 3550, being an older processor, is available at a lower price point compared to the i7 4720HQ.
However, it’s worth noting that prices can vary depending on the region and availability. It’s recommended to compare prices and consider your specific requirements before making a decision based on affordability.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, both the i7 4720HQ and the i5 3550 are capable processors, but they cater to different needs. The i7 4720HQ, with its higher clock speeds, Hyper-Threading, and mobile-friendly design, excels in tasks that require multitasking and portability, such as content creation and gaming on laptops.
On the other hand, the i5 3550 offers solid performance for desktop computers at a more affordable price point. It is suitable for everyday tasks, light multitasking, and budget-friendly gaming setups. Consider your specific requirements and budget before making a decision.
9. FAQs
Q1: Can I upgrade my existing i5 3550 processor to an i7 4720HQ? A1: No, the i7 4720HQ is a mobile processor, and the i5 3550 is a desktop processor. They have different socket types and are not compatible with each other.
Q2: Can the i7 4720HQ handle 4K video editing? A2: Yes, the i7 4720HQ is capable of handling 4K video editing tasks, thanks to its higher clock speeds and Hyper-Threading capabilities. However, for professional-grade video editing, a more powerful processor may be recommended.
Q3: Which processor is better for gaming, the i7 4720HQ or the i5 3550? A3: The i7 4720HQ offers better gaming performance due to its higher clock speeds and Hyper-Threading capabilities. However, for optimal gaming performance, it’s important to consider other components such as the graphics card.
Q4: Can the i5 3550 be overclocked? A4: Yes, the i5 3550 can be overclocked to some extent. However, it’s worth noting that Intel has locked the multiplier on non-K series processors, which limits the extent of overclocking.
Q5: Which processor is more power-efficient, the i7 4720HQ or the i5 3550? A5: The i7 4720HQ is more power-efficient compared to the i5 3550. The i7 4720HQ is designed for mobile devices and balances performance and power consumption, whereas the i5 3550 is a desktop processor and consumes more power.
